In Gaza, a new aid distribution system has sparked chaos as desperate residents scramble for food amid an ongoing humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate that Israeli airstrikes have killed several police officers attempting to maintain order during food distribution events. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), backed by the U.S. and Israel, has opened multiple distribution sites, but the UN and other organizations have criticized the operation as militarized and ineffective. Witnesses describe scenes of panic and violence, with some individuals reportedly killed or injured during the frenzied attempts to access aid. As the situation deteriorates, the population faces severe food shortages and rising tensions.
Israel has reportedly accepted a new ceasefire proposal from the U.S., aimed at halting ongoing hostilities with Hamas and facilitating the release of hostages. The proposal, introduced by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, includes a 60-day truce and the return of 10 living hostages in exchange for over 1,100 Palestinian prisoners. While Israel has signaled its support, Hamas is still reviewing the terms, expressing concerns that the proposal favors Israel and lacks guarantees for a permanent ceasefire. The discussions come amid intensified military actions and a dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Russia has proposed a second round of peace talks with Ukraine, scheduled for June 2 in Istanbul, led by the same delegation as the previous meeting. Both sides are under pressure to produce memoranda outlining their positions; however, Ukraine insists on receiving Russia's document beforehand to ensure a substantive discussion. The initial talks on May 16 resulted in a significant prisoner exchange but failed to establish a ceasefire. Turkish President Erdogan has expressed hope that renewed dialogue could lead to a resolution, while U.S. President Trump has set a two-week deadline for Russia to demonstrate genuine intent for peace.
The United States has proposed a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, urging Russia to accept the deal as its "best possible outcome." During a UN Security Council meeting, Acting Deputy US Ambassador John Kelley emphasized the need for Russia to engage in peace negotiations while warning of potential consequences if it continues the conflict. Ukraine's representatives criticized Russia for delaying the sharing of its ceasefire memorandum, suggesting it contains unrealistic demands. Meanwhile, Russia maintains it is open to negotiations but has faced accusations of stalling the peace process.
Israel has announced the establishment of 22 new settlements in the occupied West Bank, marking the largest expansion in decades. This decision, confirmed by Defense Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, includes legalizing existing outposts and creating new communities. The move is seen as a strategic measure to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state and has drawn sharp criticism from Palestinian authorities and international observers. Human rights groups warn that this expansion could further entrench the Israeli occupation and diminish the prospects for a two-state solution, already strained by ongoing conflict.
Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has accused Serbian defense companies of secretly supplying ammunition to Ukraine, undermining Serbia's declared neutrality. The SVR claims that these firms utilized fake documentation and intermediary countries, including NATO members, to facilitate the transfer of hundreds of thousands of artillery shells and millions of small arms rounds. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has acknowledged discussions regarding ammunition exports but refuted specific claims made by the SVR. The situation highlights the tension between Serbia's historical ties to Russia and its aspirations for EU membership amidst ongoing geopolitical conflicts.
Elon Musk has officially stepped down from his role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the Trump administration, marking the end of a tumultuous four-month tenure. His departure follows public disagreements with President Trump over a significant tax-and-spending bill, which Musk criticized for exacerbating the budget deficit. During his time at DOGE, Musk aimed to cut federal spending but faced challenges, with the department claiming about $175 billion in savings, far short of initial projections. Many DOGE officials are also leaving, raising concerns about the future of the agency and its initiatives.
